Senate Resolution 485 By: Senators Walker III of the 20th, Kennedy of the 18th, Lucas of the 26th, Harbison of the 15th, Williams of the 25th and others A RESOLUTION Honoring the life and memory of Clarence "Ed" Barker; and for other purposes. WHEREAS, Clarence "Ed" Barker was born in Augusta, Georgia, and raised in Warner Robins, Georgia, where he demonstrated a strong work ethic from an early age, including operating a gas station while in high school, setting a foundation for his lifelong dedication to his community and family; and WHEREAS, Ed dedicated nearly two decades of his life to public service, representing the 18th Senatorial District in middle Georgia for nine consecutive terms from 1973 to 1991, during which he worked tirelessly to improve the lives of his constituents and strengthen the State of Georgia; and WHEREAS, Ed's leadership extended beyond politics as he served as president of the Warner Robins Chamber of Commerce and the Air Force Association as well as continued to contribute to the growth and prosperity of the community even after his political career; and WHEREAS, after retiring from state politics, Ed and his wife, Janet, moved to Highlands, North Carolina, where they built a successful furniture and decorator showroom for over 20 years, demonstrating their entrepreneurial spirit; and WHEREAS, Ed's lifelong commitment to public service and his passion for community engagement were further evident through his active involvement in President Jimmy Carter's campaign and his leadership role in bringing Rev. Billy Graham's series of services to Georgia, enriching the lives of many Georgians; and WHEREAS, Ed's legacy continues through his loving family, including his wife of over 70 years, Janet, as well as his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, all of whom he deeply cared for and whose lives he touched with kindness, wisdom, and dedication. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE that the members of this body join in honoring the life and memory of Clarence "Ed" Barker and express their deepest and most sincere regret at his passing. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Secretary of the Senate is authorized and directed to make an appropriate copy of this resolution available for distribution to the family of Clarence "Ed" Barker.